Sunday, August 22, 2010

Dedya.


Dedya is Russian for Grandfather. My husband is full blooded Russian and therefore we have one big Russian family. Think "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" - that's our family. I love it.

Dedya is kind of the Patriarch of the family. Today he met Jesus.

This is one of the hardest things about living on the other side of the country. Knowing that our family is bearing this load, wishing we could be there to help, and knowing that Davids mom is going through the loss of her Dad. Davids Grandmother just lost the love of her life and we're not there to love on them as they go through it.

Dedya has lived a long full life. David and I were reminiscing last night over funny things he's said over the years. The fact that he loved and accepted me even though I'm nee-nash or "not-ours" (all of us "in-laws" are) and embraced each one of his great-grandchildren, even after we adopted Silas how much he loved that boy speaks volumes about the person that he was. He loved well and was deeply loved by all of us.

I remember the times he'd ask David what happened to marrying a Russian. Then turn to me and say I was "alright" and give me a big hug. Or the time at Skylers 3rd birthday Party he gave him a dollar and then taught him to go around the room to each person saying "Give Me Money Please" in Russian. Any one of his grand kids could tell you about the Dedya dance. Memories I know we'll always treasure.


Dedya and Baboonya were married 60 years.


He might be 6 feet tall but he's still their grand baby. :)


We saw him last summer while visiting Oregon, we knew that would probably be the last time we were all together. Many pictures were taken including the one at the top.

This one brings tears to my eyes. He loved Silas so much.
He was proud of his new little grandson.



Dedya, may you rest in the presence of our King. Rejoicing with you as you sit at his feet. Thank you for loving us well.

6 comments:

Alison said...

So sorry for your loss! But so thankful that you have the peace that he is in heaven with Jesus!

Meli_Mama said...

I'm sorry for your loss. It's wonderful to know he's dancing with Jesus. :)

Scrappy quilter said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. Thankful too he is now with Jesus. Hugs

Unknown said...

I am so sorry my precious friend. Praying for you guys!!!

Danielle said...

This is a beautiful tribute to a loved family member.
I'm sorry for the loss, but our loss is His gain, and PRAISE GOD we will all be together again!

Connie said...

I'm praying for you as you grieve from a distance...this was a lovely tribute to Dedya.